Category: blog

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is a vital tool for individuals with communication challenges, offering a range of devices and strategies to support speech. There are several myths about AAC, such as the idea that it’s only for those with no speech, that it’s hard to use, or that it prevents speech development. In reality, AAC is for people with varying speech abilities and can actually encourage speech by reducing frustration and boosting confidence. For example, a child with apraxia may start with a picture exchange system, then progress to a speech-generating device as they improve.  It’s also highly adaptable, with many intuitive systems that users can learn with support. Success stories show how AAC empowers individuals, helping them communicate

Digital Resources to Utilize with AAC Clients Information Collected from CEU #9574: Tele-AAC with Adults with Developmental Disabilities by Becca Eisenberg MS, CCC-SLP Free Non-Digital Resources to Use with AAC Clients: Use pictures from your client’s weekend and/or extracurricular activities to initiate a structured conversation Create a Pictello story with your client Listen to your client’s favorite music by asking client to request and/or comment on his/her’s favorite song Use topic board with picture icons to create structured conversations with your client Participate in role play scenarios with your client (ordering food from restaurant, trick-or-treating, etc.) Complete puzzles with your client Participate in cooking, hygiene-related, and holiday activities with your client Digital Resources to Use with AAC Clients: Cognishine: A

    The beach can be the perfect time to soak up the sun and build language! A trip to the beach can be a fun and easy way to introduce new words in a natural setting. Whether your child is digging in the sand, watching the waves, or eating a popsicle, there are so many chances to model new vocabulary words and expand language. Try describing textures (smooth, rough, wet, sticky), actions (scoop, splash, dig, float), and categories (animals, clothes, food, tools). You don’t need flashcards—just talk about what you see and do! This helps your child connect words to real experiences. Narrate your actions, repeat key words, and describe what your child is doing too. For example, talk

If your child is having trouble saying certain sounds, you might have heard the term articulation therapy. But what does that really mean? What can you expect from the process? Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand the basic steps of articulation therapy. 1. Assessment It all starts with an evaluation. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) listens to how your child says individual sounds and words to identify which sounds are delayed or in error, and whether those patterns are age-appropriate or need support. 2. Sound Selection Once the SLP knows which sounds your child struggles with, they’ll decide which to target first. 3. Sound in Isolation Therapy begins at the simplest level—just the sound by itself (like “s”). The

July is a time for sunshine, play, and relaxation—but it’s also a great opportunity to keep your child’s communication skills growing in fun, everyday ways. Here are a few simple strategies to help maintain speech and language progress over the summer months: 1. Talk during daily activities. Whether you’re at the pool, the park, or the grocery store, turn experiences into learning moments. Describe what you see, ask open-ended questions, and encourage your child to do the same. 2. Read together regularly. Choose books that spark your child’s interest and take time to pause, predict, and discuss the story. Ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why did the character do that?” 3. Play with purpose.

Multilingual parents have a very special gift they can pass on to their children — another language, along with a myriad of benefits inherent to being multilingual. To name just a few, being multilingual, comes with the following advantages: – IMPROVED child-parent connection       – parents who speak a language other than the “majority” language may feel more comfortable speaking to their children in their first (non-majority) language, consequently increasing the parent-child engagement and connection – ENHANCED COGNITIVE ABILITIES, including:      – stronger executive functioning      – stronger problem-solving skills      – stronger memory and learning abilities –  PROTECTIVE MECHANISM:       – potentially delayed onset of cognitive decline (the latter is particularly important if the

Summer and sunshine are here and so is another opportunity to help your child’s language grow! Plant a seed — quite literally — and watch it grow! Start a garden (big or small! in the ground or in a pot! indoor or outdoor!) with your child and here are all the wonderful ways you can work on communication: – talking about sequences (steps to growing a plant) – make choices about which seeds to plant (did you know you can get four       different packets of seeds at the Dollar Tree for just $1.25?) – talk about different plants (describe what they look like, taste like, smell like, compare/contrast) – talk about what tools you need for gardening – read stories

  As a parent, you don’t need to become a speech therapist to help your child develop strong communication skills. In fact, some of the most effective ways to support language growth happen during everyday activities you’re already doing—like getting dressed, eating meals, or playing together. The key is to be intentional with how you talk, listen, and interact. Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact, and the best part is, it doesn’t have to feel like “work.” One of the simplest things you can do is narrate what you’re doing as you go about your day. For example, when you’re making breakfast, you might say, “I’m cracking the egg. Now I’m stirring it. Look, it’s

  Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a powerful tool used to support communication. AAC can be used to support connection, learning, and independence. Yet, despite its benefits, AAC is often surrounded by myths that can delay or prevent it’s use. Here are some of the most common AAC myths. Myth 1: “AAC will stop my child from talking.” Truth: AAC supports speech—it doesn’t replace it. Research shows that AAC can actually help kids develop spoken language. Myth 2: “AAC is a last resort.” Truth: Don’t wait! AAC can and should be introduced early. It’s a valuable tool, not a backup plan. Myth 3: “AAC is only for nonverbal kids.” Truth: Anyone with communication struggles can benefit. Many AAC users speak but need

  The 4th of July is more than just fireworks and cookouts—it’s also a great opportunity to support your child’s language development in fun, natural ways. Whether you’re at a parade, a backyard BBQ, or watching the sky light up, here are some easy, engaging ideas to build communication and connection. 1. Label What You See Name objects and actions: “Firework!”, “Red balloon!”, “Hot dog!” 2. Talk About Senses Use describing words: “Loud boom,” “Sticky fingers,” “Smells like smoke.” 3. Offer Choices Encourage communication: “Do you want watermelon or chips?” 4. Sing & Repeat Patriotic songs and chants build vocabulary. Try: “Red, white, blue—what do you see?” 5. Tell a Story At day’s end, talk about what happened: “First the parade, then lunch, last fireworks!”